The Best Ingredients for Comfort Food

Cheese

Cheese—whether sharp cheddar, smooth brie, or versatile cream cheese—is a staple in many beloved dishes. Mac and cheese, French onion soup with Gruyere, and hot sandwiches are just a few of the countless comfort foods featuring this staple. It's also delicious on its own or as the base of a cheeseboard with crackers and other toppings.

Recipe: Pasta baked in a two-cheese sauce

Chocolate

For many with a sweet tooth, chocolate is the ultimate "comfort food." It adds a touch of sophistication to almost any baked good, and it makes delicious mousses, puddings, and sauces. Chocolate even works well in savory dishes, such as mole or chili sauce, where it adds richness and complexity. And, of course, eating chocolate on its own is perfectly acceptable!

Recipe: Slow Cooker Gooey Brownies

Bread

Bread is a "comfort food" that's often taken for granted. It's used in so many of our favorite dishes that we might not even notice it. French toast, bread pudding, and, of course, sandwiches of all kinds are based on this comforting carbohydrate. Even plain bread (or croutons) with butter is a beloved "soul food."

Recipe: French Toast Casserole with Coconut Almond Topping

Eggs

Eggs—whether omelettes, scrambled eggs, or whipped into a rich, creamy custard—satisfy cravings for a hearty, comforting meal. Egg dishes are great for more than just breakfast; try making a frittata, quiche, or casserole for dinner.

Recipe: Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Bacon

They say everything is better with bacon, including many favorite dishes. Add it to mac and cheese or a hot cheese sandwich for a new twist. Or enjoy salty, crispy bacon straight from the pan. Pancetta, Italian cured (not smoked) bacon, also makes a wonderful addition to dishes, especially creamy and cheesy ones.

Recipe: Mac and Cheese Carbonara

Vanilla

Like chocolate, vanilla rightfully ranks among the top comfort foods. It's an essential baking ingredient, imparting a warm, sweet flavor and aroma. Vanilla ice cream, studded with tiny vanilla seeds, is a true treat. Vanilla also complements chocolate desserts beautifully, enhancing the chocolate's aroma and richness.

Recipe: Quick milk pudding

Tomato sauce

Many hearty comfort dishes rely on red sauce, whether it's marinara, tomato sauce, or gravy. Spaghetti and meatballs, pizza, chicken parmigiana, and lasagna are just a few. A quality sauce will ensure these dishes are truly delicious.

Recipe: American meat sauce

Paste

Few dishes create such comfort as a large bowl of pasta—from classic Italian Carbonara to American mac 'n' cheese. Lasagna and pasta casseroles are also our favorite home-cooked dishes. Pasta of all shapes and sizes, from horns to pappardelle, is popular.

Recipe: Oven-baked spaghetti

Oatmeal and flakes

Oatmeal is used not only in porridge (which is very comforting on its own), but also in many comforting dishes. Oatmeal cookies, granola, and all sorts of toppings are delicious uses for this hearty, nutty grain.

Recipe: Oatmeal cookies with raisins and nuts